Control Cable connection to ZF63A

[Gary Marshall]

Hey guys,

I hauled the boat for annual maintenance and was cleaning up the transmission area, and found 2 issues I want to resolve.

1) the control cable is attached to the lever using a ball joint, just like you sell (https://www.sbmar.com/product/smx-c33-control-cable-ball-joint/) . But what I find odd, is that the control cable can very easily slip off the ball joint connection. The upper part of the cable sheath is still firmly connected, but the end slips off far too easily for my liking. Is this normal? The design doesn’t seem to allow for any kind of safe guard here. Perhaps it doesn’t slip off because the connection wouldn’t normally get any sideways force, but it doesn’t allow for easy peace of mind..
You can see my 3 pics attached.

2) The bracket that mounts the cooler on top the ZF transmission has broken on one side. It is not easy to get at to, to say the least, but I have to replace it. I have circled the bracket in the last pic below. Is this available for purchase independently? The old bracket is very rusty and not in good shape. I might see if I can get a stainless steel bracket made locally, but replacing it will be a pain.
I also found it interesting (or maybe concerning) that this is the one cooler that doesn’t carry pencil zincs. I have seen after-market ones for this transmission available with the zincs.

Topic

[Gary Marshall]

Thanks Rob. I don’t post much these days, but enjoy reading your helpful responses whether on sbmar or over on the albin forum. It’s appreciated!

Not being too familiar with the connector, didn’t realize it had a spring tension in it.

I will email Russel for both.

G.

[Rob Schepis]

Gary, sounds like the spring tension feature has failed in the ball joint end connector. Likely due to effects of marine age from what I can see. As to the bracket, call or email Russell in the shop: [email protected]

[Author]

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